adaptation

Definition of adaptation

1: something that is adapteda new adaptation of an old recipespecifically: a composition rewritten into a new form a screen adaptation of a novel

2: the act or process of adaptinga process undergoing adaptation: the state of being adapted
adaptation to changing circumstances

3: adjustment to environmental conditions: such as

a: adjustment of a sense organ to the intensity or quality of stimulation

b: modification of an organism or its parts that makes it more fit for existence under the conditions of its environment : a heritable physical or behavioral trait that serves a specific function and improves an organism's fitness or survival

Other Words from adaptation

Synonyms for adaptation

Examples of adaptation in a Sentence

His stage adaptation of the novel was a success.
The film is an adaptation of a book of the same title.
The insect's evolutionary adaptations enable it to be almost invisible even when sitting in the middle of a leaf.
a tool designed for easy adaptation

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'adaptation.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.